MIJ Strats

bmc · #1 10-22-2009, 04:15 AM

My cousin is buying a guitar for her 13 year old son and has asked my advice. As I always do with first time buyers, I recommend buying used, and buying a Fender. Why, because you always easily sell a Fender if he doesn't like it. They're fairly well made and make great beginner instruments.

I found a 1985 MIJ Strat for, what looks to me, to be a very good price. I'd like to know if the MIJ Strats are regarded as of comparable quality as the basses are. Any comments?

LarryO · #2 10-22-2009, 07:53 AM

I think in the 80s the MIJ strats and teisco copies were very sought after. If you want to ask people in the know.....http://www.fenderforum.com/......they can help. The build quality of those 80s MIJs are supposed to be very good, if the guitar is in good shape and the frets are level the only other thing I'd look into is what model of pickup is installed.

Phalex · #3 10-22-2009, 08:11 AM

MIJ stuff from the mid 80's has an excellent reputation. It should rival a comparable USA strat.

(I have a 50's MIJ reissue strat myself. Just out of curiosity, what are they selling for?)

bmc · #4 10-22-2009, 09:35 AM

My cousin just sent me a message to tell me she bought it. No scratches or nicks on it. Paid $381 for a 24 year old guitar.

I think she did very well.

Thanks for the input.